The night started off exactly how it should’ve; with friends and good tunes. As we laughed and enjoyed the perfect 72 degree weather of our beautiful Los Angeles backyard, we started to get hungry. I thought what a perfect time to head to sbe’s third annual culinary showcase at the iconic Mondrian hotel located at the heart of the Sunset Strip.
We call an Uber and get in. We kindly ask the driver to play some music from renowned recording artist, Common, so we can set the vibe for what to expect later in the evening when he takes the stage. As his hit single in 2005 entitled “GO” plays, I look outside the backseat window and people watch down Sunset Blvd until we arrive.
As we walk in, we’re greeted with a glass of champagne. “Oh this is nice I think to myself.” Then I look to my right and see red carpet filled with VIP attendees such as sbe Founder + CEO Sam Nazarian, Cynthia Bailey (The Real Housewives of Atlanta), Randy Jackson (American Idol), Jackie Cruz (Orange Is The New Black), SAINt Jhn (music artist), Chuck Liddell (UFC Champion), Jerry Cantrell (Alice in Chains), actor Stephen Dorff, actors Joe Cortez and John Kapelos, sbe nightlife partner Frankie Delgado (MTV’s The Hills), sbe nightlife personality Dean May, style expert Derek Warburton, John Savage + Blanco Blanco, Lady Victoria Hervey, and more.
Then I make my way to the dynamic tasting stations and bars from sbe restaurants. First up was Carna by Dario Cecchini. For the past 2 months I’ve been mainly plant based but I could not turn down the wood-smoked wagyu tomahawk steak that was simmering off the fire. After the first bite, I was sold. Needed at least 20 more pieces to be satisfied. Definitely a highlight from the night. Next up was Katsuya; sushi and sake tastings lead by the legendary Chef Katsuya Uechi. Everyone took a moment to marvel at the live cutting exhibition of a very massive fish. Then afterwards we were all served delightful tuna rolls with wasabi and sliced ginger on the side. Perfect! After that I made my way to Umami Burger where I tried Impossible Burgers made by Chef Nate Appleman.
Next it was time to wash it all down with mixology masterpieces from Gui Jaroschy. I can tell you first hand that the drinks were amazing. Definitely will be going to, S Bar, the popular Miami concept coming to Brentwood later this Fall. Then I continued to eat with cuisines like hummus by Cleo, guacamole by Diez y Seis, pizzas by Fi’lia, and empanadas by Leynia.
The peak of the celebration featured a live performance by renowned music artist and actor Common, courtesy of Tidal, and a DJ set by Ruckus. The event was also presented by Chase Sapphire, Sprint and LVE Wines.
“I was so excited to celebrate this year’s annual Taste of sbe at the newly redesigned Mondrian Los Angeles, our legendary Sunset Strip property. This year’s event left guests in awe with performances from celebrated recording artists Common and DJ Ruckus as they enjoyed the incredible culinary experiences from our renowned chefs, all together in one location with sweeping views of Los Angeles,” Nazarian shared.
As we all overlooked the beautiful LA skyline from Mondrian’s famed pool and Skybar; our hearts, minds, and stomachs were filled with nothing but pure joy!
Photo Credit: Courtesy of sbe/Ali Buck
-Hakeem Animashaun
